The International Court of Justice (ICJ) recently issued a landmark advisory opinion declaring Israel's settlements in the occupied West Bank as violations of international law. This ruling, which has significant implications for Israel's military conduct and political standing, has been largely overlooked by major U.S. media outlets, with reports receiving minimal coverage despite their importance. The ICJ highlighted that Israel's prolonged occupation and settlement practices violate the Palestinian people's right to self-determination. While the ruling is non-binding, it adds pressure on the international community to take a firmer stance against Israel's policies. Critics argue that the ruling's impact may be limited due to the prevailing political dynamics, where legal opinions often struggle against realpolitik. The ICJ's findings could influence future discussions within the UN General Assembly and Security Council regarding Israel's actions in the region.